Debt Free In 30

How do you balance financial well-being with the responsibility of supporting aging parents? This important episode tackles the complexities of financial caregiving, highlighting the challenges of the "sandwich generation"—those caring for both children and elderly parents—all while managing personal debt. Doug and Ted cover the pros and cons, from government benefits to taxes to practical steps for initiating conversations with your parents; you’ll learn essential tools and strategies for confidently navigating financial caregiving. Timestamps: (0:40) – What’s the Average Age for Insolvency? (2:00) – Understanding the “Sandwich” Generation: Caught Between Debt and Aging Parents (5:00) – Financial Caregiving Explained: What Does It Entail? (8:00) – Should You Prioritize Paying Off Debt or Helping Your Parents? (9:45) – Sidebar: Why Ted Hates Reverse Mortgages (14:00) – Government and Community Benefits for Caregivers and Their Aging Parents (16:00) – The Impacts and Downsides of Financial Caregiving

Have you ever stopped to consider the real costs—and sacrifices—of borrowing someone else’s money? Whether it’s a mortgage, car loan, or another form of financing, the hidden fees, penalties, and long-term credit impacts can quickly add up. Beyond the numbers, debt can bring stress, limit opportunities, and force tough choices in your personal and professional life. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos provide expert insights to help you confidently navigate borrowing, avoid costly mistakes, and make decisions that protect your finances and peace of mind. Timestamps: (1:00) – Get Interested in Your Interest Rates (3:25) – Understanding Origination Fees and Insurance Costs (8:05) – Why Doug and Ted Recommend Paying on Time (10:15) – Prepayment Penalties and Other “Hidden” Fees (15:10) – Discretionary Spending or Needing to Borrow More (17:10) – How Borrowing Impacts Your Credit Score (19:30) – Debt Causes Stress and Limits Opportunities (21:15) – Why Banks Encourage You to Finance   (24:00) – Pra

Is the thought of maxed-out credit cards keeping you up at night? This guide unpacks the pitfalls of credit card debt and offers clear strategies to break free from the cycle. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos discuss why your credit utilization rate matters, how many credit cards you should really have, the pros (but mostly cons) of opening new credit accounts, and the best options when you’re in a pinch. (1:45) – What’s the problem with maxing out your credit cards? (4:00) – How a credit card should be used (cash substitute vs. borrowing tool) (5:00) – Credit limit, available credit, and utilization rate – what’s the difference? (7:00) – Strategies for a maxed-out situation: Short-term fixes that work. (8:45) – Taking out additional credit cards: A double-edged sword. (11:15) – Should you have one or two credit cards? More? (14:30) – Signs your financial situation is serious: When to seek help. (16:15) – Practical advice for maxed-out cards (19:30) – The downside of debt consolidation loans (2

Many Canadians have seasonal employment or variable income, making financial planning more complex. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos provide practical strategies for managing income fluctuations, saving effectively, dealing with debt, and handling taxes during off-seasons.  This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating seasonal employment or variable income. Timestamps: (2:00) – The Seasonality of Jobs: Challenges for Canadian workers (4:00) – Saving Money: Why it’s easier said than done (6:45) – Financial Planning: Why every seasonal worker needs a plan (8:50) – E.I. Eligibility in Canada: Can you qualify during the off-season? (10:00) – Emergency Funds: Essential for seasonal employment stability (12:15) – Boosting Income: ways to earn extra during off-seasons. (15:20) – Strategic Use of Credit Cards (16:30) – Pay Off Debt or Invest? How to prioritize your money (19:00) – Smart Savings: Where to put your money (22:00) – Taxes for Seasonal and Self-Employed Canadians: What to know

Struggling to stay motivated while repaying debt? You're not alone! Charlie Kovacs, BIA Insolvency Counselor with Hoyes Michalos, joins Debt Free in 30 to share practical strategies to help you stay focused, celebrate small victories, and shift your mindset from guilt to empowerment. Whether juggling student loans, tackling "life quakes," or just figuring out how to prioritize debt, this episode offers expert advice to keep you on track. Sign up for the monthly Debt Free Digest HERE Hoyes Michalos Instagram Hoyes Michalos Facebook Hoyes Michalos TikTok Hoyes Michalos Twitter (X) Hoyes Michalos LinkedIn Credit Rebuilding Course Timestamps (2:50) – Is Tracking Progress Essential for Debt Repayment? (4:30) – The Power of Small, Daily Financial Decisions (5:40) – How Often Should You Review Your Progress? (6:40) – Celebrating Wins: The Role of Little Rewards (8:30) – Ontario Student Loans: Current Trends (10:15) – Prioritizing Debt: Revolving vs. Installment Loans (11:20) – Life Quakes: Han

If you’re a homeowner in Canada, you can’t miss this episode! Canadian homeowners are increasingly facing the tough reality of missed payments and rising financial pressures.  Licensed Insolvency Trustee Scott Terrio joins Debt Free in 30 to unpack the potential warning signs of mortgage trouble, troubleshoot possible solutions, and provides guidance on how to handle worst-case scenarios. Timestamps: (1:25) – Canada is at the beginning of a mortgage crisis (3:50) – Early warning signs of potential mortgage struggles (8:30) – What to do if you think you might miss a payment (11:00) – Mortgage deferral programs: How they work (12:40) – Refinancing or modification of your mortgage (15:00) – HELOCs (Home Equity Line of Credit) (17:15) – Selling your house: An extreme or smart option? (23:15) – If you miss one payment what exactly happens? (25:45) – Consequences of missing multiple payments (27:45) – Worst-case scenario: How it unfolds (28:55) – Can you buy a home again if you lose you

How do you know if you're financially fit?  Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos break down the essentials of financial "fitness", covering the importance (or unimportance) of positive net worth, stable cash flow, emergency funds, retirement planning, life insurance, budgeting, and more. This episode is packed with expert insights to help you evaluate your financial health and make informed decisions for a financially “fit” future. Timestamps: (0:45) – Ted Michalos on Financial Literacy Month (2:00) – What does it mean to be financially "fit"? (3:35) – Defining positive net worth and positive cash flow, which is more important? (7:30) – Example of a cash flow analysis (9:10) – The importance of an emergency fund (do you need one?) (12:00) – Is a retirement plan essential? (14:30) – Financial jargon sounds complex – Doug and Ted keep it practical (16:00) – Do you need a budget or any financial plan at all? (21:30) – Setting a savings goal: Why it matters (24:30) – Life insurance and financial sec

Ready to break all the budgeting rules? This episode is a lively debate that flips the script on traditional money management. Doug Hoyes isn’t holding back on his opinions about the Government of Canada’s “Financial Literacy Month,” challenging its effectiveness and taking a skeptical eye to the budgeting advice we’ve all heard before. Maureen and Doug discuss outdated budgeting norms, explore innovative approaches, and provide expert-backed tips for rethinking your money strategies. Join the conversation! Comment and let us know whose approach you more strongly align with—or maybe you have your own budgeting philosophy to share?   Timestamps: (1:00) – Why “Financial Literacy Month” might be missing the mark (2:30) – The truth about budgeting: why it often doesn’t work (5:35) – A breakdown of popular budgeting styles… and why Doug thinks they fail (10:50) – Pre-budget essentials: what you need to do before creating a budget (16:00) – The pitfalls of old-school budgeting and how to revamp it (

How much do you really know about the impact of credit cards on your credit score? Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos bust common myths and reveal the true influence of credit cards on your financial health. Learn how credit scores work, get expert tips on managing your credit responsibly, and explore strategies to improve your credit standing. Whether you're new to building credit or refining your approach, these actionable insights will empower you to make smarter financial decisions. Timestamps: (1:00) – What’s more important than a credit score? (6:00) – Breaking down the algorithm behind your credit score (10:30) – Credit vs. Debt: Understanding utilization rates (13:30) – Soft vs. hard credit inquiries—what you need to know (15:20) – The right way to manage your credit card (18:00) – Payment history is more important than you think (21:00) – Financial stability tips (24:00) – When should you actually check your credit score? (27:30) – Should you use credit cards to build credit? Final An

Is all debt bad, or can borrowing sometimes be a smart financial move? Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos discuss debt’s dual nature as both a financial tool and a potential burden. They break down the differences between "good debt" and "bad debt," providing clear advice on assessing what's manageable, when taking on new debt might be a smart move, and how to avoid common pitfalls.  Tune in for actionable insights on leveraging debt without letting it control your financial future! Timestamps: (0:00) – Conventional advice on “good debt” and “bad debt” (4:30) – Understanding your Debt-to-Income Ratio (DTI) (6:00) – Can you afford the payment? Key considerations (10:45) – Warning signs you have too much debt: What to watch out for (19:40) – Managing your Credit Utilization Rate (21:50) – Feeling stressed about debt? You have too much. (23:30) – How to assess the risks of taking on new debt (26:00) – Debt as a financial tool: Pros and cons (27:30) – Strategies for dealing with financial distress caused by debt We

Back by popular demand: Canadian credit collector Blair DeMarco Wettlaufer! Even if you’re not currently dealing with prohibited debt collectors, this eye-opening episode is captivating and informative.  Learn about your rights as a Canadian consumer, the tactics some creditors use to pressure debtors, and how to protect yourself from unethical and illegal debt collection practices. Covering key topics such as re-aged debt, prohibited collection methods, and how technology is transforming the debt collection industry. Whether you’re managing debt or simply want to be informed, this episode provides essential knowledge to help safeguard your financial future. Timestamps: (0:00) - Introduction of Blair DeMarco Wettlaufer from Kingston Data and Credit (1:10) - Provincial differences in debt collection laws (2:25) - Why should creditors follow the rules? (5:15) - Common unethical creditor tactics (6:40) - Re-aged debt: What it is and how to avoid it (11:10) - Tips on making arrangements with creditors (17:2

A loved one can leave assets in their will, but what about debts?  Can you inherit debt? What makes you legally responsible for debt, and what should you do if creditors come calling? Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos tackle common concerns about a sensitive topic with a touch of lighthearted fun. They discuss joint accounts and credit cards, the role of executors, and life insurance paying off mortgages. They break down what happens to debt after death in Canada and offer important advice for seniors and families planning their financial futures. Whether you're an executor, a spouse with joint accounts, or just curious, this episode provides clear (and candid) answers and essential insights for Canadians. Timestamps: (0:00) Creditors Calling About a Loved One’s Debts (2:30) Joint Credit Cards and Supplementary Credit Cards (5:30) Estates and Executors (8:10) Can You Go Bankrupt After Death? (9:00) Can You File a Consumer Proposal for a Deceased Person? (9:50) Key Responsibilities of an Executor Whe

Is credit repair a scam? Learn the truth from experts about repairing damaged credit, understanding credit scores, and managing debt. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos explain essential topics like credit utilization rate, responsible credit card usage, and when you should worry about your credit score. Whether you’re working to rebuild your credit or aiming to maintain a healthy score, this episode is full of practical advice on credit and debt management for all Canadians. Timestamps: (0:00) Humorous introduction: Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos on modern credit (2:00) Should you worry about your credit score? (5:10) Credit utilization rate and access to debt (7:40) How many credit cards are too many?  (11:10) Can items be removed from your credit report? (12:25) How often should you check your credit report? (14:00) Practical strategies for reducing debt   (17:10) What is a consumer proposal? How does it impact your credit score? (20:00) Why saving cash is more important than you think   (21:50) The importance o

Does it feel impossible to make any progress with your debt? Getting out of debt is a battle against high interest rates, financial traps like payday loans, and the emotional toll that debt takes on your mental health. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos explore the hidden factors that keep you stuck, from the predatory lending practices that pile on to your balance to the family pressures and stress that make it harder to break free. Learn how to stop the cycle of borrowing and why ignoring debt only makes things worse. Discover the tools available to help you, including guidance from licensed insolvency trustees who will review all the options available to you and your unique financial situation.   You can get out of debt!

Thinking about starting a side hustle or going out on your own? Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or a first-timer, this insightful episode with author and business expert David Barnett is packed with valuable advice. David returns to Debt Free in 30 to delve into starting or buying a business out of necessity. Discussing the importance of market research—when it’s needed and not—along with creative strategies for securing funding when resources are scarce. He also provides practical guidance on starting with limited or no capital, and the types of businesses that align with your abilities, financial situation, and more.    Timestamps:  (0:00) Introduction to David Barnett: Business Broker, Consultant, and Entrepreneur  (3:50) Excerpt from David’s Book: Why People Start Businesses Out of Necessity  (5:25) Choosing the Right Business When You Have to Start One  (6:40) Effectuation: Starting a Business Based on What You Can Do  (10:00) Conducting Market Research for Your Business Idea  (12

Welcome to Season 11, unofficially deemed our *practical* era. Are your expenses outpacing your income? With inflation rising and wages lagging, many Canadians are feeling financial strain. Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos discuss why government stats might not tell the whole story, why lowering interest rates won’t solve everything, and share practical advice for anyone struggling to keep up with debt.  Timestamps: (0:00) Spending More, Not Making More? Hilarious Season 11 Premier with Doug Hoyes and Ted Michalos (1:00) How Different Groups Have Fared from 2019 to Now (3:00) Discrepancies in Government Stats: Inflation vs. Wage Growth (4:50) How Has Everyone Been Coping with Rising Prices and Stagnant Wages? (8:10) Looking Ahead: Why Falling Behind Might Be Inevitable for Some (9:20) Bank of Canada Rate Cuts: Why They Won't Make a Big Impact (10:28) The Reality of Recession: Focusing on the Most Vulnerable (13:10) The Pitfalls of Side Gigs and Increasing Income (14:50) Strategies to Decrease Expenses (

Pros and Cons of Budgeting: What Works, What Doesn't, and What to Do Instead | Debt Free in 30 | Episode 522 Is budgeting the best way to manage your finances, or is there a more practical approach?  Debt Free in 30’s Doug Hoyes discusses the pros and cons of budgeting, breaking down popular budgeting methods like the 50/30/20 rule and the practicality of saving 20% of your income. Explore why traditional budgets can often be overly simplistic, why it’s hard to start budgeting, and how to find a method that truly works for you. Doug shares his perspective on effectively managing money without being a "budget guy" and offers practical tips for those who struggle with budgeting. From understanding different budgeting styles to finding the right balance between debt repayment and saving, this season finale has everything you need to know to make budgeting work for you. Episode Timestamps: (0:00) Doug Hoyes Isn’t a “Budget Guy”  (0:50) Maureen Explains the 50/30/20 Budget Concept  (4:20) Is Traditional Budget

In this eye-opening episode of Debt Free in 30, host Doug Hoyes dives into the world of debt collection with Blair DeMarco of Kingston Data and Credit. Together, they unravel the complexities of debt collection and help you understand your rights from initial contact to facing settlement offers or legal threats. Whether you're grappling with old debts or dealing with aggressive collectors, this episode equips you with the knowledge and strategies you need to protect your credit and manage your debt effectively.    Timestamps and Titles:    00:00 - Introduction with Guest Blair DeMarco – How Collection Agencies Work   03:05 The Collection Process: Best Questions Answered   06:05 Understanding Your Rights: Statute of Limitations and Credit Reporting  12:10 Can You Be Sued by A Collection Agency?   15:00 Old Debt – How It’s Affecting Your Credit and What to Do About It  17:45 Insights on Handling Aggressive Debt Collectors   20:10 Consumer Proposals and Stay of Proceedings – Navigating Your Option

Explore essential financial topics and practical advice to overcome debt and achieve financial stability. If you’re struggling with high-interest debt, considering installment loans, or exploring mortgage refinancing, this compilation video offers valuable tips and actionable advice. Financial expert Doug Hoyes, co-founder of Hoyes Michalos, and his guests provide insights into effective debt management strategies, including the benefits and pitfalls of various financial tools and methods. Discover expert guidance on avoiding high-interest traps, practical steps for debt repayment, and effective strategies for reducing debt. Timestamps: 0:00 Understanding Debt: What You Need To Know 2:55 What Are Installment Loans for Credit Cards? 8:30 Expert Credit Card Advice: Secrets Banks Don’t Share 10:45 Variable vs. Fixed Mortgage Rates Explained 11:45 Should You Sell Your House to Eliminate Debt? 16:00 Consumer Proposals: Mortgages and Home Equity 18:40 Considering Refinancing Your Mortgage 20:40 Avoiding

Can You Improve Your Credit Score Without Debt? | Debt Free In 30 | Ep 381. If you’re new to credit or have recently completed an insolvency filing, you may be thinking about ways to improve your credit score without taking on more debt. While debt is necessary to have in order to build your credit, there are some strategies to improve your credit score without taking on more debt. On today’s podcast, Maureen Parent, LIT, returns to discuss what makes up a credit score and how you can strategically improve it without a lot of additional debt. She also talks about the importance of utilization rates, how to build a long credit history, why cash savings and rent payments don’t count towards your score, and what to avoid so you don’t harm your credit. Tune in for lots of practical advice! Links: How to Check Your Credit Report for Free: https://www.hoyes.com/blog/how-to-check-your-credit-report/ Straight Talk on Your Money by Doug Hoyes: https://www.amazon.ca/Straight-Talk-Your-Money-Financial/dp/198834403